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Pharmaceutics
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Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Pharmaceutical Applications
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Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Pharmaceutical Applications

A special issue of Pharmaceutics (ISSN 1999-4923). This special issue belongs to the section "Nanomedicine and Nanotechnology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 September 2024) | Viewed by 11854

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Elisa Panzarini

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biological Sciences and Technologies (Di.S.Te.B.A.), Laboratory of Comparative Anatomy and Cytology, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
Interests: extracellular vesicles; differentiation; neuroinflammation; apoptosis; autophagy; nanotoxicology; drug delivery; cancer therapy; neurodegenerative diseases; nanoparticles
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Stefania Mariano

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Biological Sciences and Technologies (Di.S.Te.B.A.), Laboratory of Comparative Anatomy and Cytology, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
Interests: nanotoxicology; nanoplastics; microplastics; nanomaterials; nano-biointeraction; drug delivery; nanosafety; ecotoxicology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) stand out as nanotechnological solutions for a wide range of open biological and medical physio/pathological questions in biomedicine.

Their optical, magnetic, and electrical activities make them very important as nanoparticle-based image tools to be used in early diagnoses; furthermore, their capability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), possessing multiple biological functions in health and disease, suggests their potential exploitation for the development of new therapies. Finally, their potential use as theranostic agents could result in great and exciting progressions for personalized medicine.

This Special Issue aims to collect manuscripts from all scientists producing and/or applying metal nanoparticles in a diagnostic, therapeutic, or theranostics context, providing an insight into the latest advances in the field of nanomedicine with emphasis on the benefits, limitations, and future directions of utilizing metal nanoparticles in pharmaceutical applications. Original research papers and review articles are warmly welcomed.

Dr. Elisa Panzarini
Dr. Stefania Mariano
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pharmaceutics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • metal-based nanoparticles
  • theranostics
  • bioimaging
  • cancer therapy
  • drug delivery systems
  • nanomedicine
  • cell death
  • nanotoxicology

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 4523 KiB  
Article
Targeted Magnetic Nanoparticles for Beta-Amyloid Detection
by Nelly S. Chmelyuk, Aleksey A. Nikitin, Veronika V. Vadekhina, Vladimir A. Mitkevich and Maxim A. Abakumov
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(11), 1395; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16111395 - 29 Oct 2024
Viewed by 552
Abstract
Background/Objectivities: The presence of beta-amyloid plaques is a part of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease, but there is currently no universally accepted method for magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the disease. However, it is known that magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) can improve the T2 [...] Read more.
Background/Objectivities: The presence of beta-amyloid plaques is a part of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease, but there is currently no universally accepted method for magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the disease. However, it is known that magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) can improve the T2 contrast in MR images of various targets. Methods: We used cubic MNPs, which were produced by thermal decomposition and then it was covalently bonded to a modified fluorescently labeled tetrapeptide, HAEE-Cy5, for visualizing beta-amyloid plaques. The interaction of MNPs-HAEE-Cy5 and beta-amyloid was determinate by confocal microscopy using SH-SY5Y cell line. Results: MNPs exhibit relatively high relaxivity (approximately 200 mM−1s−1), which is crucial for enhancing target visibility in MR imaging. HAEE provides targeted delivery of MNPs by specifically interacting with beta-amyloid, while the fluorescent label Cy5 enables monitoring the efficacy of the interaction through confocal microscopy. Conclusions: The MNPs modified with HAEE-Cy5 demonstrated excellent binding to beta-amyloid plaques in vitro, as shown by experiments on the SH-SY5Y cell line. These results suggest that the proposed method has potential for use in future MR imaging studies of Alzheimer’s disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Pharmaceutical Applications)
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18 pages, 11059 KiB  
Article
From Ficus recemosa Leaf Galls to Therapeutic Silver Nanoparticles: Antibacterial and Anticancer Applications
by Ovungal Sabira, Nedumbayil Drisya, Anthyalam Parambil Ajaykumar, Asok Mathew, Kodangattil Narayanan Jayaraj, Valiyaparambil Sivadasan Binitha, Koladath Vasu Zeena, Kanakkassery Balan Roy, Pandikkadan Ayyappan Janish, Padannappurath Sheena and Kaladharan Perumpaparampil Viswanathan
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(8), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16081025 - 1 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1112
Abstract
The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using environmentally friendly methods has become increasingly important due to its sustainability and cost-effectiveness. This study investigates the green synthesis of AgNPs using gall extracts from the plant Ficus recemosa, known for its high phytochemical content. [...] Read more.
The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using environmentally friendly methods has become increasingly important due to its sustainability and cost-effectiveness. This study investigates the green synthesis of AgNPs using gall extracts from the plant Ficus recemosa, known for its high phytochemical content. The formation of AgNPs was verified through multiple analytical techniques, including UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta potential analysis, and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The UV-Vis spectroscopy results displayed a distinct surface plasmon resonance peak indicative of AgNP formation. FTIR analysis revealed specific interactions between silver ions and phytochemicals in the gall extract, while TEM images confirmed the nanoscale morphology and size of the synthesized particles. Zeta potential and DLS analyses provided insights into the stability and size distribution of the AgNPs, demonstrating good colloidal stability. Biological properties of the AgNPs were assessed through various assays. Antimicrobial activity was tested using the disc diffusion method against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, showing significant inhibitory effects. The anticancer potential was evaluated using the trypan blue exclusion assay on Dalton’s Lymphoma Ascites (DLA) cells, revealing considerable cytotoxicity. Additionally, antimitotic activity was studied in the dividing root cells of Allium cepa, where the AgNPs significantly inhibited cell division. This research highlights the effective use of F. recemosa gall extracts for the green synthesis of AgNPs, presenting an eco-friendly approach to producing nanoparticles with strong antimicrobial, anticancer, and antimitotic properties. The promising results suggest potential applications of these biogenic AgNPs in medical and agricultural sectors, paving the way for further exploration and utilization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Pharmaceutical Applications)
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14 pages, 3915 KiB  
Article
Amphotericin B-PEG Conjugates of ZnO Nanoparticles: Enhancement Antifungal Activity with Minimal Toxicity
by Saad M. Alshahrani, El-Sayed Khafagy, Yassine Riadi, Ahmed Al Saqr, Munerah M. Alfadhel and Wael A. H. Hegazy
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(8), 1646; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14081646 - 7 Aug 2022
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 2185
Abstract
Amphotericin B (AMB) is commonly used to treat life-threatening systemic fungal infections. AMB formulations that are more efficient and less nephrotoxic are currently unmet needs. In the current study, new ZnO-PEGylated AMB (ZnO-AMB-PEG) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized and their antifungal effects on the [...] Read more.
Amphotericin B (AMB) is commonly used to treat life-threatening systemic fungal infections. AMB formulations that are more efficient and less nephrotoxic are currently unmet needs. In the current study, new ZnO-PEGylated AMB (ZnO-AMB-PEG) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized and their antifungal effects on the Candida spp. were investigated. The size and zeta potential values of AMB-PEG and ZnO-AMB-PEG NPs were 216.2 ± 26.9 to 662.3 ± 24.7 nm and −11.8 ± 2.02 to −14.2 ± 0.94 mV, respectively. The FTIR, XRD, and EDX spectra indicated that the PEG-enclosed AMB was capped by ZnO, and SEM images revealed the ZnO distribution on the surface NPs. In comparison to ZnO-AMB NPs and free AMB against C.albicans and C.neoformans, ZnO-AMB-PEG NPs significantly reduced the MIC and MFC. After a week of single and multiple dosage, the toxicity was investigated utilizing in vitro blood hemolysis, in vivo nephrotoxicity, and hepatic functions. ZnO-AMB-PEG significantly lowered WBC count and hematocrit concentrations when compared to AMB and ZnO-AMB. RBC count and hemoglobulin content, on the other hand, were unaltered. ZnO-AMB-PEG considerably lowered creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels when compared to AMB and ZnO-AMB. The difference in liver function indicators was determined to be minor by all formulae. These findings imply that ZnO-AMB-PEG could be utilized in the clinic with little nephrotoxicity, although more research is needed to determine the formulation’s in vivo efficacy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Pharmaceutical Applications)
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Review

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20 pages, 4385 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Photodynamic Therapy: Metal-Based Nanoparticles as Tools to Improve Cancer Therapy
by Stefania Mariano, Elisabetta Carata, Lucio Calcagnile and Elisa Panzarini
Pharmaceutics 2024, 16(7), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics16070932 - 12 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1523
Abstract
Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with traditional therapies like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation often accompanied by systemic toxicity and damage to healthy tissues. Despite progress in treatment, these approaches have limitations such as non-specific targeting, systemic toxicity, and resistance development in [...] Read more.
Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with traditional therapies like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation often accompanied by systemic toxicity and damage to healthy tissues. Despite progress in treatment, these approaches have limitations such as non-specific targeting, systemic toxicity, and resistance development in cancer cells. In recent years, nanotechnology has emerged as a revolutionary frontier in cancer therapy, offering potential solutions to these challenges. Nanoparticles, due to their unique physical and chemical properties, can carry therapeutic payloads, navigate biological barriers, and selectively target cancer cells. Metal-based nanoparticles, in particular, offer unique properties suitable for various therapeutic applications. Recent advancements have focused on the integration of metal-based nanoparticles to enhance the efficacy and precision of photodynamic therapy. Integrating nanotechnology into cancer therapy represents a paradigm shift, enabling the development of strategies with enhanced specificity and reduced off-target effects. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the pivotal role of metal-based nanoparticles in photodynamic therapy. We explore the mechanisms, biocompatibility, and applications of metal-based nanoparticles in photodynamic therapy, highlighting the challenges and the limitations in their use, as well as the combining of metal-based nanoparticles/photodynamic therapy with other strategies as a synergistic therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Pharmaceutical Applications)
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34 pages, 11203 KiB  
Review
Cancer Treatment Using Different Shapes of Gold-Based Nanomaterials in Combination with Conventional Physical Techniques
by Simona Tarantino, Anna Paola Caricato, Rosaria Rinaldi, Caterina Capomolla and Valeria De Matteis
Pharmaceutics 2023, 15(2), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15020500 - 2 Feb 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2201
Abstract
The conventional methods of cancer treatment and diagnosis, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and computed tomography, have developed a great deal. However, the effectiveness of such methods is limited to the possible failure or collateral effects on the patients. In recent years, nanoscale materials [...] Read more.
The conventional methods of cancer treatment and diagnosis, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and computed tomography, have developed a great deal. However, the effectiveness of such methods is limited to the possible failure or collateral effects on the patients. In recent years, nanoscale materials have been studied in the field of medical physics to develop increasingly efficient methods to treat diseases. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), thanks to their unique physicochemical and optical properties, were introduced to medicine to promote highly effective treatments. Several studies have confirmed the advantages of AuNPs such as their biocompatibility and the possibility to tune their shapes and sizes or modify their surfaces using different chemical compounds. In this review, the main properties of AuNPs are analyzed, with particular focus on star-shaped AuNPs. In addition, the main methods of tumor treatment and diagnosis involving AuNPs are reviewed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Pharmaceutical Applications)
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21 pages, 4725 KiB  
Review
Inorganic Nanoflowers—Synthetic Strategies and Physicochemical Properties for Biomedical Applications: A Review
by Su Jung Lee, Hongje Jang and Do Nam Lee
Pharmaceutics 2022, 14(9), 1887; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14091887 - 6 Sep 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3280
Abstract
Nanoflowers, which are flower-shaped nanomaterials, have attracted significant attention from scientists due to their unique morphologies, facile synthetic methods, and physicochemical properties such as a high surface-to-volume ratio, enhanced charge transfer and carrier immobility, and an increased surface reaction efficiency. Nanoflowers can be [...] Read more.
Nanoflowers, which are flower-shaped nanomaterials, have attracted significant attention from scientists due to their unique morphologies, facile synthetic methods, and physicochemical properties such as a high surface-to-volume ratio, enhanced charge transfer and carrier immobility, and an increased surface reaction efficiency. Nanoflowers can be synthesized using inorganic or organic materials, or a combination of both (called a hybrid), and are mainly used for biomedical applications. Thus far, researchers have focused on hybrid nanoflowers and only a few studies on inorganic nanoflowers have been reported. For the first time in the literature, we have consolidated all the reports on the biomedical applications of inorganic nanoflowers in this review. Herein, we review some important inorganic nanoflowers, which have applications in antibacterial treatment, wound healing, combinatorial cancer therapy, drug delivery, and biosensors to detect diseased conditions such as diabetes, amyloidosis, and hydrogen peroxide poisoning. In addition, we discuss the recent advances in their biomedical applications and preparation methods. Finally, we provide a perspective on the current trends and potential future directions in nanoflower research. The development of inorganic nanoflowers for biomedical applications has been limited to date. Therefore, a diverse range of nanoflowers comprising inorganic elements and materials with composite structures must be synthesized using ecofriendly synthetic strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal-Based Nanoparticles for Pharmaceutical Applications)
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